IMPHAL, October, 5: `Transgenders are still looked down upon in the society, although they have been recognised by the legal establishments as the third gender`, said acclaimed writer Khumanthem Prakash.
He was speaking as the chief guest during the release function of `Nungshitombi`- an anthology of short stories , written by Rajmani Ayekpam.
The function was held this afternoon at the Manipur Hindi Parishad hall, Assembly Road Imphal.
During his speech, Kh Prakash, highlighted on a short story taken from the anthology, with the same title `Nungshitombi`, which is based on the issues of transgender, the kind of social stigmas they face, and their daily struggle to eke out a living.
He congr-atulated the writer, and mainta-ined that writers always have a special feeling when their works are released to the public, especially on the day of release.
He said, `Invitees present here today might take it as just another function of book release, but for the writer, it is like a `Swasti Puja`™ for his new born book`.
President of the function, Dr Thokchom Ibohanbi, head of Manipuri department, DM college of Arts, speaking on the occasion expressed his happiness that contemp-orary writers have touched upon subjects, which have not been written by past writers in Manipuri literature.
Dr Ibohanbi further pointed out that issues of transgender, surrogate mother and fake encounter, which were not written about in the past have been included in the anthology. He continued that writing short stories require certain qualities of creative ingenuity, before adding that so many short stories have been written around the world, but only a few stands out. Essence of a short story is to remain in the hearts of the readers, he added.
Dr W Kumari gave a brief review of the book.
Mentioned may be made that Rajmani Ayekpam`™s other works are: `Natheiruraba Echel`, `Chumthangi Machu Sing`, `Ekhougi Thang` and `Thaktoklakpa Mamishing` etc.